Brake cable safety
There should be no compromises when it comes to vehicle safety. Flexible Drive has been designing, manufacturing and repairing automotive and industrial cables for over 85 years. We are committed to the highest quality standards, using premium components sourced both locally and internationally.
Durability, corrosion resistance and reliability are critical when choosing a brake cable. That’s why we offer one of the widest aftermarket ranges available, backed by extensive industry knowledge and technical expertise.
A parking brake cable is a thin steel cable that connects the handbrake lever to the parking brake assembly. Located underneath the vehicle, the cable transfers the force applied at the lever to the brake shoes or calipers, creating the friction needed to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Unlike the foot brake system, which relies on hydraulic brake fluid, the parking brake operates mechanically through the cable itself.
Over time, parking brake cables can wear, corrode or seize due to exposure to moisture, dirt and road conditions. If a cable becomes damaged or breaks, the parking brake may no longer function correctly, creating a serious safety risk.
Common brake cable failures
A parking brake cable that cannot fully release may result in:
- Overheating brakes
- Grinding noises caused by excessive wear
- Reduced vehicle performance
- In severe cases, the vehicle may not move at all
Other common issues include:
- A handbrake lever that becomes difficult or impossible to operate
- Loss of parking brake functionality
- Uneven brake engagement
Maintaining a properly functioning brake system is essential for both safety and vehicle performance. Addressing minor cable issues early can help prevent costly repairs and reduce the risk of more serious brake problems. With hundreds of brake cables in stock, we can help ensure the right fit for your vehicle or application.
If you can’t find the cable you need in our catalogue, Flexible Drive also offers in-house custom engineering and manufacturing solutions to suit specialised automotive and industrial applications.